How do I know what model Craftsman mower I have?
On a Craftsman riding mower like model 917250241, the model number is printed on the product identification label (often under the seat area or on the frame). Match that label exactly to the model number shown in your owner's manual so you order the correct parts.
Where to look on a Craftsman riding mower
Check these common label locations first:
- Under the seat (lift the seat and look on the fender pan or seat deck)
- On the frame rail near the engine compartment
- Near the rear frame by the transaxle area
- Under the hood or along the dash support (varies by build)
- On the mower deck shell (sometimes a separate deck tag)
What to write down from the label
For accurate parts matching, record the full information exactly as printed:
- Model number (example format: 917.25024 or 917250241)
- Product number or serial number
- Engine model and type (helpful for tune-up parts)
- Deck size (this tractor family is commonly labeled by deck width)
Quick match guide (what the numbers mean)
Use this as a practical checklist when comparing your label to parts listings.
| Label item | What it’s used for | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Main parts lookup | Ensures diagrams and parts lists match your tractor |
| Serial number | Production run details | Helps avoid ordering a part that changed mid-year |
| Deck size | Deck and blade-related parts | Prevents wrong belt, spindle, or blade fit |
| Engine info | Engine maintenance parts | Helps match filters, plugs, and fuel parts |
Why it matters
Craftsman tractors can look similar across multiple model numbers, but steering parts, deck hardware, and electrical components can differ. Using the exact model number helps you avoid returns and downtime, especially for parts like a lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350 or lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802.
You can also search by the exact model number on Sears PartsDirect to pull up the correct diagrams and parts list.
Last updated: February 2026
What kind of engine does a Craftsman riding lawn mower have?
The Craftsman riding lawn mower model 917250241 uses a gasoline, internal combustion, low-emission engine (a newer-style design that can operate differently than older engines). For the exact engine make, model, and tune-up specs, use the 917250241 owner's manual.
What we can confirm for model 917250241
From the operator’s manual for this tractor, we can rely on these engine-related details:
- It is a gas-powered riding tractor engine.
- It is a low-emission engine design.
- Fuel with up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable.
- Using fuel over E10 can void warranty coverage.
- Because it is an internal combustion engine, spark arrester requirements may apply in some areas.
Where to find the exact engine brand and model
On most Craftsman tractors, the engine identification is easiest to confirm in these places:
- The engine label (often on the blower housing or valve cover area)
- The operator’s manual product specifications section
- The engine model-type-code stamping/label (varies by engine maker)
If you are ordering ignition or starting parts, matching the engine ID helps ensure correct fit.
Common engine types you may see on Craftsman tractors
Many Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors in this class commonly use one of these engine families (your exact unit is confirmed by the manual and engine label):
| Engine family | Typical configuration | Common use case |
|---|---|---|
| Briggs & Stratton | Single-cylinder | General residential mowing |
| Kohler | Single-cylinder or V-twin | Heavier mowing, smoother operation |
| Kawasaki | V-twin | Higher-end residential performance |
Why it matters
The engine type determines the correct spark plug, air filter, oil type/quantity, and even which starting system parts fit. For example, a no-crank issue may point you toward electrical parts such as the lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802 or the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350.
You can order replacement parts for your Craftsman 917250241 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
How much does it cost to replace a riding lawn mower engine?
For a Craftsman riding tractor like model 917250241, a full engine replacement typically runs about $260 to $1,800 installed, with labor commonly taking around 6 hours depending on shop rates and any extra repairs needed. Use the 917250241 owner's manual to confirm maintenance items first, because many “engine problems” are caused by tune-up or fuel issues.
What drives the total cost
- Engine price (new or remanufactured) and whether it’s a direct-fit replacement
- Labor rate and minimum shop charges (often billed in hours)
- Extra parts needed during the swap (belts, wiring repairs, hardware)
- Condition of the tractor (rusted fasteners, damaged mounts, worn pulleys)
- Diagnosis time if the failure is intermittent (no-start, stalls, low power)
Before you replace the engine: quick checks that often save money
We recommend ruling out common maintenance-related causes first:
- Replace the spark plug (many tractors call for replacement every season or every 100 hours)
- Service the air filter (dirty filters can cause poor running and hard starting)
- Replace the in-line fuel filter once each season
- Clean the grass screen and cooling fins to prevent overheating damage
- Verify battery and starting circuit condition (weak battery, bad connections, or a failing solenoid)
If the engine only clicks or cranks but will not start, follow the steps in riding lawn mower engine spins but wont start video.
Typical cost breakdown (example)
| Cost item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Engine (part) | $200 to $1,500+ | Varies by horsepower and brand compatibility |
| Labor | $300 to $900 | Often around 6 hours for riding tractors |
| Misc. parts and supplies | $20 to $200 | Filters, oil, fuel line, hardware |
Related parts that can mimic engine failure
Sometimes the engine is fine, but a starting or drive component is the real issue. These parts are commonly involved in “won’t start” complaints:
Why it matters
Replacing an engine is one of the highest-cost repairs on a riding mower. A fast maintenance and starting-system check helps you avoid paying for an engine when the real fix is a fuel, ignition, or electrical part.
If you decide to move forward, you can order replacement parts for your Craftsman 917250241 from the parts list for this model, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026
What year was Craftsman 917250241 made?
The Craftsman riding tractor model 917250241 is identified in the operator documentation as Model No. 917.25024; the exact build year is determined from the tractor’s product identification label (model and serial tag), not from the model number alone. Use the label to match the serial information to the correct production date range in the owner's manual.
Where to find the build date information
On most Craftsman front-engine lawn tractors like 917250241, the model and serial information is printed on a product identification label. Common locations include:
- Under the seat pan (lift the seat and look on the frame or fender pan)
- On the rear frame near the hitch plate
- On the left or right side of the frame rail
- Near the engine compartment on the chassis
How to use the label to determine the year
Once you find the label, write down the model number and serial number exactly as shown. Then:
- Confirm the model family matches (917.25024 is the manual’s model format for 917250241)
- Use the serial number format to identify the manufacturing date code (varies by production run)
- Cross-check the serial information against the identification guidance in the owner's manual
What to record (quick checklist)
- Model number: 917250241
- Serial number: (exact characters, including any leading zeros)
- Engine model/type (helpful when ordering tune-up parts)
- Deck size and transmission type (often listed in documentation)
Why it matters
The build year affects parts fitment and service procedures, especially for deck components, steering linkage, and electrical starting parts. For example, if you are troubleshooting a no-crank condition, the correct replacement can depend on the wiring and switch style used on your production run (such as the lawn tractor ignition switch 532193350 or lawn tractor starter solenoid 582042802).
Common part categories that can vary by production run
| System | Examples of parts that may differ | Symptoms when mismatched |
|---|---|---|
| Electrical start | Ignition switch, solenoid, ignition harness | No crank, intermittent start |
| Steering | Drag link, pivot link | Loose steering, poor tracking |
| Mower deck | Mandrel housing, mandrel pulley | Vibration, uneven cut, belt issues |
If you need to order parts, start with the parts list for model 917250241, or search by model number on Sears PartsDirect.
Last updated: February 2026





